HOLDING THE UNIT
WARNING:
Always use the hand placements specified
below whether the operator is left-handed or right-handed.
This will help keep the operator slightly to the left of the
unit and out of the direct line of the saw chain if kickback
occurs (Fig. 13 and Fig. 14). Always keep all body parts to
the left of the chain line.
•
Always grip the unit firmly with both hands when the unit is
running.
•
Firmly encircle the handles and/or pole with the thumbs and
fingers (Fig. 10). This will help reduce the chance of losing
control of the unit if kickback occurs. Any grip with thumbs and
fingers on the same side of the handles and/or pole is
dangerous (Fig. 11).
•
Stand in a stable position with feet apart and firmly planted.
As a Chain Saw
•
Hold the front handle with the left hand. Keep the left arm
straight to help withstand potential kickback.
•
Hold the rear handle with the right hand. Keep the right arm
slightly bent.
•
Do not cut above shoulder height. Do not overreach.
As a Pole Saw
•
Hold the pole with the left hand. Keep the left arm straight.
Always hold the pole in the grip area (Fig. 12).
•
Hold the handle with the right hand. Keep the right arm slightly bent.
•
Hold the unit at waist level (Fig. 12).
•
Do not extend arms above shoulder height. Do not overreach.
CUTTING PROCEDURE BASICS
1. Start the unit. Refer to Starting Instructions in the Starting and
Stopping section.
2. Accelerate the unit to full speed before cutting.
3. Press the unit against the wood and maintain a firm, steady
pressure through most of the cut. Do not put pressure on the
unit at the end of the cut.
4. Maintain a steady speed throughout the cut. Keep the unit
running through the entire cut.
5. Do not try to force the saw through the wood. Allow the saw
chain to do the cutting. Exert only light pressure. Forcing the cut
could result in damage to the unit or personal injury.
6. Release the throttle control as soon as the cut is completed.
Allow the saw chain to come to a complete stop. The saw chain,
guide bar and motor may experience unnecessary wear if the
unit is run without a cutting load.
Correct Grip
Thumbs Below the Handles
Incorrect Grip
Waist Level
Chain Line
Correct Stance
17
Fig. 10
Thumb
Above the
Handle
Fig. 11
Grip Area
Fig. 12
Fig. 13